WELCOME TO SATURDAY BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT, WHERE WE FEATURE A DIFFERENT BUSINESS EVERY SATURDAY!

This week we are featuring Crystal Nerpel of Cloud Nine Organizing

How long have you been in business?

Feb 9th was Cloud Nine Organizing's 2nd birthday!

What is your business all about? (services, products, etc)

I help families calm the chaos through my decluttering and organizing services. I prefer working alongside my clients, in their homes or via video conferencing, to teach them how to get and stay organized. However, I also do a lot of organizing, on my own, while my clients are either at work or out of town.

What makes your business unique?

I have been there. I have first-hand knowledge about what it feels like to live with clutter and chaos. I also have first-hand experience with tackling clutter and fixing the problem. It's why I am good at what I do.

I don't go into someone's home with the intention of making it look beautiful (that's just a happy side effect) I go into someone's home with the intention of helping them relieve stress. Less mess = less stress. My goal is for my clients to take ownership of the organizing process (with a lot of help from me) so they can maintain what we've accomplished.

What made you start your business?

It was personal. I made a decision to get a handle on my own clutter. I decluttered my diet, my belongings and my schedule. It was a 9 month process that relieved so much stress! I thought, "Everybody needs to do this!" I asked a few friends if I could declutter/organize for them to see if I'd enjoy doing it for someone else too. Yep! Just as satisfying to help other people get organized. The following month I was open for business.

What would you say are the top three skills needed to be a successful business owner?

Since I'm still figuring this out myself I'll share with you what I strive for:

Flexibility - No two projects are the same. No two clients are the same. No two days are the same. I like to try new things, explore new options and be creative. I've learned that it's important to have a plan B. I always go to a job with a plan, but know that I'm probably going to have to be flexible and switch things up.

Integrity - I would never intentionally hire someone who does not have a high level of integrity, and I assume my clients would agree. In fact, I only want to work with clients who expect a high level of integrity. Being honest about your abilities.

Organized (of course!) - There are so many moving parts when it comes to running a business especially if you have one employee: you! As a business owner I wear many different hats and work long hours. I try to use my time wisely and efficiently. That means my schedule, financial system and procedures all need to be organized.

What three pieces of advice would you give to someone who wants to launch their own business?

*It's never going to feel convenient to start your won business. Just do it!

*Find your tribe. Reach out to other like-minded people who will support and encourage you.

*Don't feel guilty. You are building something great! In the beginning, it will take a lot of your time and that's OK. You are allowed to put your focus (with balance!) into something you have a passion for. You are allowed to make money doing something you love!

Who has been your greatest inspiration? Or what book has inspired you the most?

Easy. My life long friend Teri (aka Teresa) is the most amazing, creative, brave, badass woman! Even when we were kids she would think of things that never occurred to me. After she had an idea she'd do something crazy...she would take action! She would do it and make it happen. Sometimes, she'd bring me along for the ride.

My most favorite thing she says is, "I have an idea" because I know it's gonna be good! I'm more of a, "I might have an idea, but I don't think I want to try it out." She encourages me to take action!

How do you conquer those moments of doubt that so often stifle or trip up or stop so many?

My tribe!! I immediately reach out to the small group of women business-owners that support my struggles and celebrate my victories! Business has some many cycles, dips, turns...it's a rollercoaster ride. If you hang on, you're gonna be fine and probably super proud of yourself.

Please feel free to share any other information that will help your audience get to know you better.

My husband and kids have been my guinea pigs for years. They have been my best teachers! I have figured out what works and what doesn't through annoying them. LOL.

Thank you, Crystal, for letting us share a bit about you!

If you’d like to reach out to Crystal, here is Crystal’s Contact Information.

Company Name: Cloud Nine Organizing. (Dallas-Fort Worth) I also do video conferencing so I can work with anyone from anywhere.